Bon Vivant: 'Exceptional' Scottish bar shut down due to growing economic pressure
A long-standing and much-loved Scottish bar and restaurant has closed its doors for good.
A bar and restaurant that has been open for 17 years has closed down citing “economic pressure.”
The Bon Vivant on Thistle Street in Edinburgh, which opened in 2008, has now closed with the team posting about the “difficult decision” on the business’s social media. They wrote: “We have taken the difficult decision to close Bon Vivant.
“Despite the commitment of our team and the loyalty of our guests, growing economic pressures mean that continuing to trade is no longer commercially viable. We have chosen to close now to give our customers as much time as possible to make alternative arrangements for the Christmas period.
“Provision has been made to return all customer deposits in full, and our team is contacting affected bookings to arrange refunds and assist with rebooking at alternative venues. We are deeply grateful for the support we have received over the years.”
The cosy bar is known for its “exceptional” wine list, great cocktails and wonderful food. It was named CLASS Magazine Restaurant Bar of the Year 2018 and 2019 and Tales of the Cocktail Top 10 International Restaurant Bar 2019.
The Scotsman reviews of the past have called it: “With unusual tapas-style Bite options from the starter and after bites list and a menu which changes daily, Bon Vivant caters to any possible meal whim. A great place for a drink, a nibble or a full-blown meal.”
The Bon Vivant was opened in 2008 by Stuart McCluskey who left the business in 2023 and replied to the announcement saying: “Sad day for me today. I was very proud of what I created way back in 2008. It’s a shame the new ownership weren’t able to make a go of it. My heart goes out to the staff. Long live Bon v. X”
Anyone booked for Christmas and New Year will be contacted for refunds.
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